Local FBI Agent Tapped For Top Suffolk Police Department Post

Geraldine Hart

By Connor Beach
cbeach@longislandergroup.com

Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone has nominated Geraldine Hart, a Northport High School grad and agent in charge at the FBI’s Melville office for the past four years, for the role of Suffolk Police Commissioner.

If Hart’s nomination is approved by the legislature, she will fill the position vacated in December by former police commissioner Tim Sini, who was elected Suffolk district attorney.

Bellone praised Hart, a 21-year veteran of the FBI, for being “fearless” and for the law enforcement experience and connections she has built up over the course of her professional career.

“She brings a depth of knowledge on the key issues that we are facing in this county,” Bellone said.

He also called the extensive process that eventually led to Hart’s nomination “deliberate,” adding that he personally conducted more than 30 interviews with over a dozen candidates for the position.

Hart said she plans to take over as commissioner in April.

Until then, Bellone said Suffolk Police Chief Stuart Cameron will serve as acting commissioner; he replaces John Barry.

Barry, who followed Sini to the district attorney’s office as chief investigator, had served as acting commissioner since the start of 2018.

Cameron called Hart “absolutely the right person for the job.”

Hart said she wants to take the next month to meet with the department’s top brass, local precincts, community leaders and county legislators.

“We will continue to stem the tide of opioids, eradicate gangs — particularly MS-13 and insure that we are doing everything we can to prevent an active shooter or terrorist incident in Suffolk County,” Hart said.

Hart’s nomination is currently being considered by the Suffolk Legislature.

Legislator Robert Trotta (R- Fort Salonga) said he expects a vote to be held in April at the earliest.

Trotta, a retired Suffolk police detective who worked with the FBI, said he knows Hart from his time spent in law enforcement.

“She’ll do a fine job,” Trotta said, but added, “She’s getting involved in the cesspool I call Suffolk County politics.”

Legislator Susan Berland (D- Dix Hills) said she had a “great conversation” with Hart and is impressed with the nominee’s qualifications and priorities.

“I think a female perspective is something that will benefit the police department,” Berland said. “As the first female police commissioner for Suffolk County, I think she will serve as a tremendous role model for female officers and all officers on the force.”

Hart, 50, said she is looking forward to the opportunity to continue working in law enforcement in Suffolk. “I am honored for this opportunity to continue to serve here in Suffolk County alongside the hardworking men and women of the Suffolk County Police Department.”